CEDAR CITY, Utah – The Southern Utah Women’s basketball team fought to the wire against Sacramento State but fell 69-75 in Overtime.
“I think we played hard with some really good stretches, however when they cranked up the pressure, we didn’t execute very well and gave into that pressure which let them make a push towards the end. Overall, we played like we weren’t meant to lose,” head coach Tracy Sanders.
The Thunderbirds struggled in the opening quarter as they were trying to find a bucket. They trailed Sacramento State 2-7 with 4:26 remaining in the opening quarter. The Thunderbirds managed to knock down some shots and tied the game up 13-13 at the end of the first quarter.
As the second quarter began, the T-Birds continued the attack, resulting in shooting 9-13 from the FT line. They would go into half with the lead 34-28.
The second half started off with Sacramento State speeding up the pace of the game and scoring points off turnovers. The T-birds still remained in control ending the quarter leading 51-42.
As the fourth began, Sacramento State increased their defensive level of play. They went on a 8-0 run and forced the game into overtime.
As overtime began, the Hornets couldn’t miss. They shot 83 percent from the field and 87.5 percent from the free throw line ran away with the score.
Harley Hansen finished with a double-double scoring 13 points and hauling in 13 rebounds. Ashley Larsen contributed as well having 18 points and 2 rebounds. Rebecca Cardenas pitched in 13 points and nine rebounds.
The Thunderbirds will turn their attention to their match up with Portland State on Saturday, Feb. 16th, at the America First Event Center at 2 p.m. The broadcast of the game will be available on Pluto TV channel 236.
Story by: Markiece Gross
sports@suunews.net
Photo courtesy of SUU Athletics Strategic Communication
